The Bengals cut James Harrison five days ago, less than a year after he signed with the team. On Monday, the 35-year-old admitted that he'd like to return to Pittsburgh, where he played from 2002-2012, won two Super Bowls (and appeared in another), and earned the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.

Appearing on NFL Network with Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor, Harrison was asked where he wants to play next season.

"Pittsburgh," Taylor interjected.

Harrison added: "Everybody knows that."

Thing is, if Harrison had agreed to a pay cut last offseason, he might still be in Pittsburgh. Instead, he refused, the team released him, and he signed for less to play with the Bengals. But would the Steelers have any interest in bringing him back in 2014?

The organization, in general, isn't in the habit of backsliding (although, in 2010, they did bring back former players Larry Foote and Antwaan Randle El), but it's not like they're loaded at outside linebacker, either.

Pittsburgh has Jason Worilds under contract for at least one more season (the two sides are reportedly working on a long-term deal). And Jarvis Jones, the 2013 first-round pick, will also return as a starter. But after that there is ... Chris Carter, who has done little to distinguish himself during three NFL seasons.LaMarr Woodley is now a member of the Raiders and Harrison, even on the downside of a great NFL career, could provide short-term depth.